Health and Me

Ishita Roy

4 Simple Tests That Can Detect Kidney Diseases Early, According To Doctor

Kidney disease is rising at an alarming pace worldwide, and it’s now among the top causes of death. A Lancet study highlights that the number of people living with <span><a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health/chronic-kidney-disease">chronic kidney disease</a></span> jumped from 78 million in 1990 to nearly 788 million in 2023. That’s a massive tenfold spike, and a reminder that our kidneys need more attention than we realize.

The tricky part? Kidney problems often progress silently. Many people don’t realize anything is wrong until the kidneys are already significantly damaged. That’s why experts strongly emphasize early screening. According to nephrologists like Dr Arjun Sabharwal, a few simple tests — often quick and inexpensive — can help catch kidney issues early and improve treatment outcomes.

Below are the four key tests everyone should know about, especially if you have diabetes, high blood pressure, a family history of kidney disease, or you’re simply trying to stay proactive about your health.

<h2>Creatinine Blood Test &amp; eGFR: Your First Kidney Health Check</h2>Creatinine is a waste product filtered out by the kidneys. A routine blood test measures its level, but creatinine alone doesn’t tell the full story. That’s where eGFR (Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate) comes in.

eGFR uses creatinine values along with age and other factors to estimate how well your kidneys are functioning overall. Doctors often say, <em>“Creatinine is just a number — eGFR tells you how much your kidneys are working.”</em>

An eGFR below normal may be an early signal that your kidneys aren’t filtering efficiently, even if you feel fine.

<h2>Cystatin C: A More Accurate Indicator for Some People</h2>

Cystatin C is a protein produced naturally by all cells. When kidneys are healthy, its levels stay stable; when the kidneys struggle, the levels rise.

Experts highlight that Cystatin C can be more reliable than creatinine for people with very high muscle mass, those who work out intensely, or individuals taking supplements that may affect creatinine readings. If creatinine results seem unclear or inconsistent, this test adds clarity.

<h2>Urine Dipstick Test: Quick and Tells You a Lot</h2>

Before kidney function takes a major hit, the body often shows early warnings — one of which is protein leakage in urine. A urine dipstick test is one of the fastest ways to detect this.

A chemically treated strip is dipped into your urine sample, and if proteins like albumin are present, the strip changes color. It’s simple, non-invasive, and helpful for spotting early kidney damage.

<h2>Urine Protein-to-Creatinine Ratio (UPCR): How Much Protein Is Leaking</h2>

If a dipstick shows abnormalities, the next step is often a UPCR test. This test measures exactly how much protein is leaking into the urine relative to creatinine. Higher levels may signal worsening kidney function or underlying disease. Doctors use UPCR to assess the severity of kidney damage and monitor progress over time.

If any test shows rising creatinine, an abnormal eGFR, protein in urine, or blood detected on a dipstick, it’s crucial to book an appointment. Lifestyle tweaks, home remedies, or detox drinks cannot reverse kidney damage. Expert evaluation is essential.

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Kidney disease is rising at an alarming pace worldwide, and it’s now among the top causes of death. A Lancet study highlights that the number of people living with chronic kidney disease jumped from 78 million in 1990 to nearly 788 million in 2023. That’s a massive tenfold spike, and a reminder that our kidneys need more attention than we realize.The tricky part? Kidney problems often progress silently. Many people don’t realize anything is wrong until the kidneys are already significantly damaged. That’s why experts strongly emphasize early screening. According to nephrologists like Dr Arjun Sabharwal, a few simple tests — often quick and inexpensive — can help catch kidney issues early and improve treatment outcomes.Below are the four key tests everyone should know about, especially if you have diabetes, high blood pressure, a family history of kidney disease, or you’re simply trying to stay proactive about your health.Creatinine Blood Test & eGFR: Your First Kidney Health CheckCreatinine is a waste product filtered out by the kidneys. A routine blood test measures its level, but creatinine alone doesn’t tell the full story. That’s where eGFR (Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate) comes in.eGFR uses creatinine values along with age and other factors to estimate how well your kidneys are functioning overall. Doctors often say, “Creatinine is just a number — eGFR tells you how much your kidneys are working.”An eGFR below normal may be an early signal that your kidneys aren’t filtering efficiently, even if you feel fine.Cystatin C: A More Accurate Indicator for Some PeopleCystatin C is a protein produced naturally by all cells. When kidneys are healthy, its levels stay stable; when the kidneys struggle, the levels rise.Experts highlight that Cystatin C can be more reliable than creatinine for people with very high muscle mass, those who work out intensely, or individuals taking supplements that may affect creatinine readings. If creatinine results seem unclear or inconsistent, this test adds clarity.Urine Dipstick Test: Quick and Tells You a LotBefore kidney function takes a major hit, the body often shows early warnings — one of which is protein leakage in urine. A urine dipstick test is one of the fastest ways to detect this.A chemically treated strip is dipped into your urine sample, and if proteins like albumin are present, the strip changes color. It’s simple, non-invasive, and helpful for spotting early kidney damage.Urine Protein-to-Creatinine Ratio (UPCR): How Much Protein Is LeakingIf a dipstick shows abnormalities, the next step is often a UPCR test. This test measures exactly how much protein is leaking into the urine relative to creatinine. Higher levels may signal worsening kidney function or underlying disease. Doctors use UPCR to assess the severity of kidney damage and monitor progress over time.        View this post on Instagram            A post shared by Dr Arjun Sabharwal - MBBS MRCP(UK) Nephrology (@drarjunsabharwal)]]>When to See a NephrologistIf any test shows rising creatinine, an abnormal eGFR, protein in urine, or blood detected on a dipstick, it’s crucial to book an appointment. Lifestyle tweaks, home remedies, or detox drinks cannot reverse kidney damage. Expert evaluation is essential.